UAE: Man awarded Dh15,000 as compensation for moral damages after car theft

In a landmark ruling, the Al Ain Civil, Commercial, and Administrative Court has ordered a man to pay Dh15,000 in compensation to a car owner for moral damages resulting from the theft of the vehicle. The verdict, issued on November 24, 2025, follows the defendant’s prior criminal conviction by the Al Ain Public Prosecution, which was upheld in an appeal and became final after no further challenges were lodged with the Court of Cassation. The plaintiff initiated a civil lawsuit after the theft, seeking redress for both material and emotional harm. The court, referencing Article 88 of the UAE Evidence Law, affirmed that the criminal judgment held binding authority over the civil proceedings, thereby establishing the defendant’s liability. Additionally, the court invoked Article 282 of the UAE Civil Transactions Law, which mandates compensation for wrongful acts. The judge determined that the Dh15,000 award would adequately cover the plaintiff’s material losses and emotional distress. The defendant was also ordered to bear the court fees and legal costs. This case underscores the UAE judiciary’s commitment to ensuring justice and accountability in civil matters following criminal convictions.